And that the conduct of Empresario's be investigated by said board, in strict conformity with their contracts and the laws on that subject, and their claims and pretensions to lands, investigated and their titled disposed of as those of other citizens. And that the commissioners be bound to keep a register of all claims presented to them for investigation, and show on said register the disposition made of such claim- and that they shall remain in office until the Empresario contracts expire, and all the titles investigated- with permission lo adjourn from time to time, and hold their office where circumstances and convenience may warrant. And that they appoint a Secretary, capable of making correct translations of the Castillian and English languages- and that the board be authorised to make such charges for their investigation of titles as the circumstances will warrant; and that they shall have the right and power to order to be delivered over to them all original deeds and records which may be within their several Departments, pertaining to land originally deeded by the Government. And that such commissioners shall be citizens of good moral character, chosen popularly by the people; that they shall be disconnected from land speculation, & sworn to discharge their duties, faithfully in conformity with the laws and decrees of the Government, on those subjects, with all of which they shall be furnished. That the Political Chief of 'each Department, shall give at least three months notice of such election, which shall be held at the site of each Jurisdiction only, and kept open four hours in each day for six days, and then closed and conducted in the ordinary manner. See myself the importance and necessity for the adoption of some such course, speaking confidently, so far as my own Department is involved, believing that it would not only add stability and confidence, but all party spirit, and be productive of much good to all parties interested, induces me the more earnestly to urge your Excellency to press this mat1er before the honorable Congress in order that it receive that speed}' and prompt attention which the importance of the subject requires. It is confidently hoped, that your Excellency, and the honorable Congress, will make such a disposition of the subject, as to your Excellency, and the honorable body may deem the best calculated to promote the general good. With sentiments of the highest respect and consideration, I subscribe myself, your obedient servant.
God and Liberty. Henry Smith
San Felipe de Austin, February 2d, 1835. His Excellency, the Governor of the State of Coahuila & Texas
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